Male Reproductive Clinic - Texas, Infertility

Main Office
9190 Old Katy Road
Ste 101
Houston, TX 77055
Tel: 832.358.8600
Fax: 832.358.0376
View Map

Cypress Fairbanks Medical Center
11302 Fallbrook
Suite 106
Houston, TX 77076
View Map

SERVICES

Russel Williams, MD, discussing infertility with a couple Comprehensive Urological Evaluation

Many couples are surprised to learn that an abnormal semen analysis and decreased male fertility are present in approximately 50% of couples who present for infertility evaluation. A thorough evaluation of both partners is critical when a couple is felt to be infertile. A semen analysis is first ordered and is a good measure of the man's fertility. If a comprehensive semen analysis is normal, the likelihood of a significant male factor is low.

Men with an abnormal semen analysis are initially referred for evaluation by a urologist- a physician with special training in male infertility. A comprehensive history and physical examination begins to identify the cause of the man's infertility. The cause for the abnormal semen analysis may result from either abnormal sperm production or abnormal sperm transport. Clues to which of the two conditions may exist are derived from answers to questions about previous illnesses, previous fertility events, previous operations or injuries, and exposure to medications and heat. The testicles, prostate, penis, breast tissue and neck are examined closely to determine if an abnormality in these organs exist. A man's hormonal status which is derived by genetics and by medication controls body hair distribution and body stature. Abnormalities in the body development are very important in understanding the causes of male infertility.

[ back to top ]

Fertility Lifestyle Counseling

Lifestyle habits can markedly affect the quality of the semen. Alcohol, tobacco, drugs, recreational activities and exercise all can affect sperm production and ejaculation. Alcohol destroys sperm-producing tissue. Tobacco causes decreased sperm survival and function. Diet and vitamins have been shown in controlled studies to affect sperm production. Sexual practices can be modified to promote fertility. Abstinence periods of three to four days produce larger semen quantities and greater viability. Certain common lubricants such as KY jelly, lotions, and oils can kill sperm and decrease fertility.

[ back to top ]

Medical Therapy

Medical therapy for male infertility is successful in certain conditions. The most successful medical treatments for infertility are based on clearly defined abnormalities in the male reproductive tract. Our approach to treating male infertility disorders utilizes anti-inflammation medication, antibacterial medication, hormone regulating medication, and medication that promotes erections and ejaculation.

Click on this link to look up more information about these medications: Infertility Encyclopedia - Drug Therapy.

Surgical Therapy

Surgeon Surgical therapy has been perhaps more successful than medication in restoring more normal quality to the semen analysis. Some surgical procedures like testes biopsy, vasogram (injection of dye into the genital duct), and cystoscopy of the bladder help to determine if an obstruction of genital duct system may be present. An ultrasound study of the prostate or testes is occasionally needed to evaluate infertility.

Surgical procedures that improve semen quality include varicocele (scrotal vericose veins) repair, vasectomy reversal, prostate resection, surgical sperm removal, and electroejaculation. Most of these procedures require general anesthesia and are day surgeries. Click on this link to look up more information about these procedures: Infertility Encyclopedia - Surgical Therapy.

[ back to top ]

Vasectomy Reversal

Microsurgical vasectomy reversal is one of the most challenging surgical procedures performed by infertility experts. Successful vasectomy reversal is highly dependent on surgical skill, length of time since vasectomy, presence of complications at the time of vasectomy and quality of semen production at the time of reversal. While over 90% of men who have a vasectomy reversal will have sperm in the ejaculate, less than 60% of these men actually are able to initiate a pregnancy naturally. Men who were initially fertile at the time of their vasectomy can develop decreased sperm production which becomes apparent after reversal. The urologist performing the vasectomy reversal should display excellent microsurgical skills and a capability of treating all aspects of male infertility.

Dr. Williams is trained to perform microsurgical vasectomy reversal and correct other aspects of male infertility. Specialized laboratory services allow identification of problems in sperm production. Advanced andrology services such as sperm washing for intraterine insemination and cryopreservation increase the chance of pregnancy in the vasectomy reversal patient.

Dr. Williams has a more specific Vasectomy Reversal page which details information on cost and preparation for surgery.

[ back to top ]

No-Scalpel Vasectomy

Many patients choose to have a vasectomy to manage contraception once family planning is complete. The vasectomy is the most reliable and safest form of contraception for both men and women. The no-scalpel vasectomy is an advanced modification of the technique. This minimally invasive procedure is virtually painless under local anesthesia and is completed in 20-25 minutes. Activities are limited for only one day after the procedure. Dr. Williams will order a follow up semen analysis in two and half months after the vasectomy to verify sterility.

Dr. Williams now offers the much desired no-needle no-scalpel vasectomy. The no needle anesthetic allows for less discomfort and relieves men of their needle phobia.

For more details about no-scalpel vasectomy, no-needle no-scalpel vasectomy, and for the vasectomy consent form, see Dr. Williams's No-Scalpel Vasectomy page

[ back to top ]

Features